Kate Middleton’s grey coat carries a hidden history

When Kate Middleton steps out, the world takes notice of her fashion choices. Sometimes, her outfits carry an especially personal connection.

On September 23, the Princess of Wales joined Prince William in Southport to comfort a grieving community after the tragic deaths of three children at a Taylor Swift–themed dance class in July 2024.

While her visit was primarily about offering support, Kate’s choice of clothing added a layer of personal meaning, linking back to her life before royal duties.

Here’s a closer look at Kate’s outfit and the significance behind it.

1. Kate wore a coat from Jigsaw

Kate’s long steel gray coat was identified by fan blogs as the Maxi City Coat by Jigsaw, a British fashion brand she knows intimately. This isn’t just a label she admires, she once worked there. After she graduated from the University of St. Andrews in 2005, Kate took a part small role at Jigsaw as an accessories buyer.

The connection added a deeply personal touch to her ensemble which proves that fashion can sometimes hold powerful memories.

2. The exact coat isn’t available in her shade

The wool Maxi Coat by Jigsaw is currently available online for $525, but Kate’s sleek gray shade isn’t in stock. The brand does carry other colors, meaning royal watchers might have to settle for a slightly different version if they want to recreate her look.

It’s not the first time her fashion choices have sold out a phenomenon often dubbed the “Kate Effect.”

3. She chose a “Business Princess” look for the day

Kate paired the gray coat with a pink blouse, tailored gray trousers, and coordinating details, presenting what something described as a “business princess” aesthetic.

The polished, professional outfit struck the right balance, respectful for a somber community visit, but still approachable.

4. The visit marked a return to Southport

This was not Kate and William’s first trip to Southport after the incident. The Wales returned to emphasize their ongoing support, ensuring that families, children, and first responders affected by the devastating loss know they will not be forgotten.

Their return highlighted a message the royals often stress during difficult times, that grief should be met with solidarity, not silence.

5. Kate was remembered fondly as a Jigsaw employee

Kate’s time at Jigsaw may have been short, but she left a lasting impression and in a 2008 interview with the Evening Standard, Jigsaw founder Belle Robinson praised her work ethic and personality.

“She was very mature for a 26-year-old,” Robinson recalled. “She sat in the kitchen at lunchtime and chatted with everyone from the van drivers to the account girls. She wasn’t precious.”

This glimpse into her pre royal life shows her grounded character that continues to resonate with people today.

6. She left Jigsaw before entering full-time royal life

Kate worked at Jigsaw until 2007, when she moved on to join her family’s company, Party Pieces and just three years later, she and Prince William announced their engagement in 2010, and by 2011, she officially became the Duchess of Cambridge.

Her Jigsaw chapter may have been short, but moments like this show she hasn’t forgotten her roots.

7. Jigsaw has remained in her wardrobe over the years

This isn’t the first time Kate has returned to Jigsaw for style inspiration. Over the years, she’s chosen articles from the brand for public appearances.

Most remarkably she wore a bow by Jigsaw during her Together at Christmas carol service back in 2004.

Her decision to spotlight the brand again during such an important visit supports the idea that her wardrobe isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s also about history, memory, and connection.